Ilamae James

Ilamae James, of Eaton Rapids, MI, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, November 26, 2025, at the age of 93. She was born on July 12, 1932, in Eaton Rapids Township, one of 13 children born to Perry and Janie (Norris) Raines. Ilamae grew up in Eaton Rapids and attended the one-room schoolhouse on Plains Road, graduating in 1950.

After high school, Ilamae began her career as a nurse’s aide at Eaton Rapids Hospital. She later worked for Eaton Tech, where she remained until her retirement. In her later years, she spent a short time in Arizona, where she enjoyed working as a clothing tailor.

Ilamae was a talented sewer and loved her Wednesday night bingo trips to the Jean Bradford Kline Senior Center. She cherished her weekly coffee and card gatherings with her close friends. A longtime member of St. Peter Catholic Church, Ilamae will be remembered as a devoted mother, grandmother, and a loving “adopted” aunt and grandmother to many others whose lives she touched.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Nicholas James Sr.; and all 12 of her siblings.

She is survived by her children, Susan (Larry) West, Julia (Tim) Seger, Melissa James, Nicholas (Patti) James Jr., and John (Sandy) James; as well as numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren, great-great-grandchildren, nieces, and nephews.

Funeral services were held at 1 p.m. on Thursday, December 4, 2025, at Skinner Funeral Home in Eaton Rapids. The family received friends one hour prior to the service, which was held on Thursday, and from 5-7 p.m. on Wednesday.

Those wishing to make a memorial contribution may do so to Moore’s Adult Foster Care Facility in memory of Ilamae.

To share memories or leave condolences, please visit www.SkinnerFuneralHomes.com.